What AI said about tax software
in August 2026

Short answer: top tax software most people should consider

For U.S. individual taxes, I’d shortlist these:

My recommendation

Most people should start with FreeTaxUSA. It’s the best balance of legitimacy, breadth, and price. If your return is W-2 income, dependents, student loan interest, itemized deductions, basic investment income, 1099 work, or a simple Schedule C, it’s usually enough.

Use TurboTax if you value the smoothest interface, auto-imports, lots of prompts, and don’t mind paying more.

Use H&R Block if you want the option to escalate to a real tax pro or visit an office.

Use Cash App Taxes if your return is simple and you want truly free federal + state filing—but check that it supports your state and tax forms before committing.

Use TaxSlayer or TaxAct if you want a cheaper paid product than TurboTax/H&R Block but still want a recognizable mainstream brand.

Quick decision guide

• Simple W-2 return: Cash App Taxes, IRS Free File, FreeTaxUSA
• Best cheap all-around: FreeTaxUSA
• Best user experience: TurboTax
• Need in-person help backup: H&R Block
• Freelancer / 1099 / Schedule C on a budget: FreeTaxUSA or TaxSlayer
• Lots of brokerage imports, RSUs, crypto, rentals, K-1s: TurboTax, H&R Block, or consider a CPA
• Income under IRS Free File limit: Check IRS Free File before paying anything

One note: prices and supported forms change each filing season, so before you enter everything, check the product’s current pricing page and confirm it supports your specific forms.

Best Tax Software: Top Recommendations

Based on current market data, here are the most widely used and highly rated tax software options for individuals and businesses:

1. TurboTax (Intuit) — Best Overall for Complex Returns

The most popular DIY option, especially strong for investors, freelancers, and self-employed filers. TurboTax is best for complex returns, investments and self-employment income, with pricing roughly $0-$99 for basic tiers, $39-$159 for mid tiers, and $150+ for advanced tiers, plus about $0-$49 per state return.

2. H&R Block — Best Overall Value

H&R Block promises help with a "Have a Pro Do It" option, where you can send an enrolled agent or CPA your documents and let them complete your tax filing forms on your behalf. It's known for good value combined with lots of support through features like Online Assist and Tax Pro Review. A big plus is its network of physical offices — it's best for those who want a physical safety net, continuing to bridge the gap between digital and in-person filing.

3. FreeTaxUSA — Best Free/Budget Option

Consistently recommended as the top value pick. For DIY filers, TurboTax and H&R Block deliver a polished experience, while FreeTaxUSA remains the best free option.

4. TaxAct — Best Middle-Ground for Small Business

TaxAct occupies the middle ground between the premium price of TurboTax and the budget-friendliness of TaxSlayer, and is particularly strong for businesses structured as Partnerships or S-Corps. It also offers a price-lock guarantee where you pay the price listed when you started, not when you file.

5. TaxSlayer — Best Budget Pick for Self-Employed

Popular among freelancers and gig workers looking for lower-cost options, often grouped with TurboTax Self-Employed as a top choice for that segment.

6. Cash App Taxes — Best Free Option for Simple Returns

Recommended specifically for straightforward filers.

7. Drake Tax Software — Best for Tax Professionals/CPAs

If you're a professional preparer rather than a DIY filer: if you prefer professional-grade reliability, Drake Tax Software offers unmatched depth.

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Quick Guide by Situation

For a simple W-2 employee, good options include Cash App Taxes, FreeTaxUSA, and H&R Block Free. For self-employed/freelancer/gig workers, consider TurboTax Self-Employed, TaxSlayer, or TaxAct. For investors (stocks or crypto), TurboTax Premier or H&R Block Premium work well. Landlords with rental income should also look at TurboTax Premier or H&R Block Premium. Multi-state filers can use TurboTax, H&R Block, or TaxAct depending on complexity. Families claiming deductions and credits often benefit from TurboTax Deluxe, H&R Block Deluxe, or FreeTaxUSA Deluxe.

Important Note for 2026

One key change to be aware of: IRS Direct File is no longer available for the 2026 filing season, making it even more important to choose a platform that matches your filing needs. However, the IRS Free File program still exists — it's available to taxpayers with adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less in 2026, and instead of offering its own retail software, the IRS partners with approved third-party providers that allow eligible filers to prepare and submit federal returns at no cost through the IRS portal.

Bottom line: If you want simplicity and are cost-conscious, start with FreeTaxUSA or Cash App Taxes. If you want the most polished, guided experience (especially for investments/self-employment) and don't mind paying more, **Turbo

Choosing the best tax software depends heavily on your budget, how complex your taxes are, and whether you prefer a highly guided "do-it-for-me" experience or are comfortable doing some of the legwork yourself.

The top-rated and most widely used tax preparation platforms are categorized below, focusing primarily on the United States (where DIY tax software is most prominent), followed by a quick look at Australia.

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🇺🇸 Best US Tax Software (For IRS Filers)

1. TurboTax (by Intuit)

• Best for: Easiest user experience, complex tax situations, and integrated live help.
• Why people use it: TurboTax is the market heavyweight. It uses a highly polished, conversational Q&A interface that guides you step-by-step through your return. It also boasts the best document-import features in the industry—allowing you to snap photos of W-2s, upload PDFs, and instantly import investment data (including stock and crypto transactions) from hundreds of different financial institutions.
• Support: "TurboTax Live" allows you to pay extra to get real-time advice from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Enrolled Agent (EA).
• The Catch: It is by far the most expensive platform. Upgrades are pushed aggressively, and state filing fees add up quickly.

2. H&R Block Online

• Best for: A balanced mix of strong software and human, in-person support.
• Why people use it: H&R Block’s online software is the closest competitor to TurboTax. It features a similarly clean, user-friendly interface but usually at a slightly lower price point. It also features robust document uploading and AI-powered tax assistant features.
• Support: The biggest perk of H&R Block is its physical footprint. If you get halfway through your online return and realize your taxes are too complicated, you can seamlessly hand your return over to a professional at an online or local H&R Block office.
• The Catch: While cheaper than TurboTax, the costs still rise significantly if you have self-employment income, freelance gigs, or rental properties.

3. FreeTaxUSA

• Best for: Budget-conscious taxpayers with complex returns.
• Why people use it: It is widely considered the best-kept secret of the tax world and has gained massive popularity as a high-value alternative to TurboTax. Federal filing is 100% free, even if you have complex situations like sole proprietorships, self-employment income, or stock/crypto investments.
• Cost: Federal is free; state filing costs roughly $15.
• The Catch: The interface is more traditional and "form-based" rather than conversational. You may have to manually enter numbers from your documents instead of using slick auto-import tools.

4. Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax)

• Best for: Truly 100% free filing.
• Why people use it: Unlike other platforms that lure you in with "free" offers only to charge you for state returns, Cash App Taxes is entirely free for both federal and state filing, with no hidden upsells. It even supports self-employment and investment income.
• The Catch: You are required to log in and file through the Cash App mobile/web ecosystem. It does not support some niche tax forms, and it has minimal live customer support.

5. TaxSlayer

• Best for: Gig workers, military members, and low-cost flat fees.
• Why people use it: TaxSlayer is highly affordable and offers a completely free version for active-duty military members. Its paid tiers for freelancers and gig workers are typically much cheaper than TurboTax or H&R Block.
• The Catch: The help database is not as robust, and the user interface can feel a bit bare-bones.

⚠️ Note on IRS Direct File: If you used the government's free "Direct File" pilot program in 2024 or 2025, please note that the program was officially discontinued by the U.S. Treasury. To file for free, you will need to rely on private commercial options (like FreeTaxUSA or Cash App Taxes) or check if you qualify for the IRS Free File partnership program based on your income.

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🇦🇺 Best Australian Tax Software (For ATO Filers)

If you are filing taxes in Australia, the landscape is slightly different and relies more heavily on direct integration with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO):

1. myTax (by the ATO): The official, completely free online lodging tool. It automatically pulls pre-filled information from your employer, banks, and private health funds by late July. It is incredibly easy to use and is the best choice for simple returns.
2. Etax: Australia's most popular online tax service. It bridges the gap between DIY and an accountant. You fill out your deductions online, and a qualified accountant reviews your return before submitting it to the ATO to ensure you maximize your refund.
3. Hnry: An automated tax service specifically designed for sole traders, freelancers, and contractors. Hnry functions as your financial middleman—they calculate, withhold, and pay your income tax, GST, and superannuation automatically as you get paid.
4. TaxTank: A modular, real-time tax tracking software designed for individuals with multiple income streams (property, shares, crypto, or sole trader income). It connects directly to your bank feeds to help you monitor your tax position year-round.

The best tax software depends on what you value most, but the brands people most often use and reviewers most consistently recommend are TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, and FreeTaxUSA.

• TurboTax — best for the smoothest, easiest experience, especially if you want guided help and don’t mind paying more.
• H&R Block — best for human support and a strong in-person/online hybrid experience.
• TaxAct — best if you want clear breakdowns and more control while filing.
• TaxSlayer — best for low cost and price transparency.
• FreeTaxUSA — often the best pick for budget-conscious filers who want a solid free or very low-cost option.

If you want the shortest practical recommendation:

• Choose TurboTax if you want the most polished experience.
• Choose H&R Block if you want help from a person.
• Choose TaxSlayer if price matters most.
• Choose TaxAct if you want more control over the filing process.
• Choose FreeTaxUSA if you want the cheapest mainstream option that many people actually use.

If you want, I can also rank these by best for beginners, cheapest, self-employed, or maximum refund help.

The best tax software depends on your tax situation, budget, and comfort level. Here are the top brands people actually use, based on popularity, features, and customer satisfaction.

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1. TurboTax (Intuit)

Best for: Ease of use and guided step-by-step filing; most popular in the U.S.

• Pros: Very intuitive, plain-English questions, excellent mobile app, good for beginners. Caters to simple and complex returns (investments, rental property, self-employment).
• Cons: Expensive, especially for state filing and self-employed versions. Upsells are aggressive.
• Pricing: Starts free for simple federal returns; state costs extra. Deluxe ~$69+, Self-Employed ~$129+ (prices vary by year).

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2. H&R Block

Best for: DIY filers who might want in-person help at a physical office.

• Pros: Similar ease of use to TurboTax, but often a little cheaper. Free version supports more forms than TurboTax Free. You can drop off your return at a local office if you get stuck.
• Cons: Pricing creeps up for complex situations. State filing costs extra on some tiers.
• Pricing: Free for simple federal/state; Deluxe ~$45+, Premium ~$80+.

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3. FreeTaxUSA

Best for: Value-conscious filers who need full tax features without the price tag.

• Pros: Excellent for a low cost; federal e-file is completely free for all situations (including self-employment, rental income, investments). Only $14.99 for state (as of 2024/2025). Supports nearly every IRS form.
• Cons: Interface is less polished than TurboTax or H&R Block. No phone support, but good web help/FAQs.
• Pricing: Federal $0; state $14.99.

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4. TaxSlayer

Best for: DIY filers and small business owners looking for an affordable alternative.

• Pros: Handles complex returns (including Schedule C, business income) well. Lower price than TurboTax. Also offers a professional version for tax pros.
• Cons: Not as beginner-friendly; interface feels dated. Customer support has mixed reviews.
• Pricing: Start at ~$0 for simple federal (with paid state); Self-Employed ~$40-60.

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5. Cash App Taxes (formerly Credit Karma Tax)

Best for: Absolutely free filing, including free state.

• Pros: No cost for federal and state filing on all major forms, including self-employment. Simple and mobile-friendly.
• Cons: Does not support very complex situations like foreign income or some multi-state considerations. No live tax expert support. Owned by Block (Cash App).
• Pricing: $0.

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6. Jackson Hewitt Online

Best for: People who like a familiar retail brand at a lower price.

• Pros: Flat-rate pricing for many situations; includes access to live tax professionals for guidance. Free options for W-2 + standard deduction filers.
• Cons: Not as feature-rich as TurboTax; fewer integrations.
• Pricing: Free tier; Deluxe ~$40+; full service options.

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7. TaxAct

Best for: Users who want professional-level power without the premium price.

• Pros: Good for itemized deductions, small business, and rental income. Pricing is lower than TurboTax/H&R Block.
• Cons: Interface is less polished and learning curve is steeper for beginners. Free version is limited.
• Pricing: Federal starts free; Premium ~$55+.

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8. IRS Free File

Best for: Low/moderate-income filers (adjusted gross income under a certain threshold, usually $79,000/year) who want free filing.

• Pros: Partnered with top software brands (including TurboTax, TaxSlayer, FreeTaxUSA). Totally free for eligible taxpayers.
• Cons: Not a separate software—you must use the IRS website to access the partner offer.
• Pricing: $0 (if eligible).

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Quick recommendation

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Final tip: Before you buy any paid software, check if your state has a free e-file option or if you qualify for IRS Free File. If your return is straightforward—one W-2, standard deduction—you likely don't need to pay anything.

TurboTax (by Intuit) is by far the most widely used tax software, holding roughly 60% market share in the U.S. consumer tax software market according to recent surveys. Other top brands people actually use and that consistently rank highly in expert reviews and user feedback include H&R Block, FreeTaxUSA, TaxAct, TaxSlayer, and Cash App Taxes.

These recommendations focus on DIY online consumer software (the most common way people file). Choices depend on your situation: simple W-2 returns, self-employment/gig work, investments, need for support, or desire to minimize cost. Most offer free tiers for basic federal returns (with limitations), paid upgrades for more complex situations, state filing (often extra), accuracy/max refund guarantees, and e-filing. Prices fluctuate yearly and by complexity—always check current details, as free options have eligibility rules (e.g., income, forms).

Top Recommendations

1. TurboTax (Best Overall / Most Popular / Easiest to Use)

• Why people use it: Exceptional step-by-step guidance in plain language, strong help resources (including AI assist, videos, community, and paid live experts or full-service options), excellent mobile apps, broad form coverage (including complex investments/crypto and self-employment), and imports from prior years or competitors. It consistently wins “best overall” or “best for ease of use” from outlets like PCMag (Editors’ Choice, 5.0) and CNBC Select.
• Best for: Beginners, complex returns, investors, self-employed who want hand-holding, or anyone prioritizing a polished experience.
• Drawbacks: Most expensive (paid tiers can run $100+ federal + state fees; free edition is limited). Can feel pushy with upsells.
• Tiers: Free Edition (simple returns), Deluxe, Premier, Self-Employed, plus Expert Assist/Full Service.

2. FreeTaxUSA (Best Value / Strong User Favorite for Affordability)

• Why people use it: Completely free federal filing for everyone (no income limits or forced upgrades for most forms/schedules, including itemized deductions, investments, rentals, self-employment/Schedule C, etc.), with state returns around $15.99. Supports major forms, easy interface, document imports (W-2s, some 1099s), and good accuracy guarantees. Highly praised on Reddit (r/personalfinance megathreads) and by users switching from pricier options; PCMag Editors’ Choice for free federal.
• Best for: Budget-conscious filers, self-employed, anyone with moderate-to-complex returns who doesn’t need extensive live pro support. Great TurboTax alternative.
• Drawbacks: Help resources are more limited (email/community; paid pro support available) than TurboTax or H&R Block.
• Note: Also participates in IRS Free File for qualifying lower-income users (sometimes free state too).

3. H&R Block (Best for Support Options / Strong All-Around Alternative)

• Why people use it: Solid free tier (covers more situations than some competitors, including some education/unemployment), good guidance, live chat/AI assist with paid plans, and seamless path to in-person or virtual pro help at thousands of offices. Frequently ranks high for overall experience or live support (e.g., Business Insider best overall in some years; strong PCMag scores).
• Best for: Those who may want pro assistance, multiple filing methods, or self-employed.
• Drawbacks: Can be pricey for higher tiers (similar to or a bit less than TurboTax); free tier has limits.
• Tiers: Free, Deluxe, Premium, Self-Employed.

4. Cash App Taxes (Best Completely Free Option)

• Why people use it: Free federal and state for a wide range of situations (supports most major forms; no income cap like some free editions). Fast, intuitive interface, free audit defense, and easy mobile experience. Often recommended for free filing by CNBC, PCMag, and others.
• Best for: Simple-to-moderate returns where you want $0 cost and are comfortable without pro support.
• Drawbacks: Limited/no live tax pro help; some advanced features or multi-state/part-year returns restricted; manual entry more common; requires Cash App account for some perks (e.g., faster refund).

5. TaxAct (Best Accuracy Guarantee / Solid Mid-Range)

• Strong coverage, deduction maximizer tools, good interface/mobile, and a robust accuracy guarantee (covers penalties, interest, and significant legal/audit fees). More affordable than TurboTax/H&R Block. Frequently praised for value and free tier options.
• Best for: Cost-conscious users wanting solid features and strong guarantees without the highest price.
• Good self-employed options.

6. TaxSlayer (Best Budget / Self-Employed Value)

• Affordable paid plans (often significantly cheaper than big names for self-employed), free tier for simple returns, solid form support, and extras like quarterly estimated tax reminders. CNBC pick for affordability; strong for freelancers.
• Best for: Self-employed/gig workers on a budget or military (special free options sometimes).
• Help can be less polished than premium brands.

Other Notable Mentions

• Jackson Hewitt: Flat low fee for online (e.g., ~$25 for federal + any states in some reviews); good in-person network.
• IRS Free File / Direct File: Completely free options via IRS partners (including some of the above) or the IRS’s own tool (availability varies by year/state/pilot status)—check IRS.gov if you qualify by income.
• Professional/desktop software (for CPAs or heavy users): UltraTax CS, Lacerte, Drake Tax dominate among tax pros.

Quick Advice for Choosing

• Simple W-2 only: Start with free options (Cash App Taxes, TurboTax/H&R Block Free, FreeTaxUSA, or IRS Free File).
• Want easiest experience + support: TurboTax or H&R Block.
• Maximize savings: FreeTaxUSA or Cash App Taxes (or TaxSlayer/TaxAct for mid-tier).
• Self-employed/investments: TurboTax Premium/Self-Employed, FreeTaxUSA, TaxSlayer Self-Employed, or TaxAct.
• Compare yourself: Most let you start a return for free and see the final price before paying/filing. Import prior returns where possible. Watch for state fees, add-ons (audit defense, etc.), and eligibility.
• Prices and features are for recent seasons (e.g., tax year 2024/2025 filings into 2025/2026); verify on official sites as tax laws and offerings change.

User reviews (especially Reddit) often favor FreeTaxUSA for value and lack of nickel-and-diming, while TurboTax wins for polish and popularity. Match the tool to your complexity and budget for the best experience. If your situation is very complex (multiple businesses, international, etc.), consider a tax professional.

Top recommended tax software for U.S. filers in 2026 includes H&R Block, FreeTaxUSA, TurboTax, Cash App Taxes, and TaxSlayer, each offering different advantages for cost, complexity, and user experience.

Top Choices and Standout Features

1. H&R Block — Editor’s Choice

H&R Block is considered the best overall, balancing coverage, price, and support US News+1 . It offers a free online tier for simple returns, including student loans and retirement income, which covers more situations than TurboTax. Paid tiers start at $35-$89 federal plus $37 per state, with optional in-person assistance at 12,000+ locations. Features include AI-guided filing, Schedule 1-A support, and hybrid online/in-person options +1 . Best suited for filers wanting comprehensive options with the safety of office support.

2. FreeTaxUSA — Best Value

FreeTaxUSA provides federal filing at $0 for all complexities and state filing for $15.99 +1 . It handles self-employment income, cryptocurrency, rental properties, and Schedule 1-A, making it highly cost-effective for complex returns on a budget. Deluxe add-ons ($7.99) offer audit assistance and priority support. Ideal for value-conscious filers who can manage their own tax filing.

3. TurboTax — Best Experience

TurboTax is known for its polished user experience and top-tier brokerage integration, making it ideal for complex returns involving investments, stock options, or self-employment +1 . Free federal filing is restrictive (approx. 37% qualify), while paid tiers range from $79-$139 federal plus around $64 state. Features include AI-assisted interviews and optional Live or Full Service with CPA support. Recommended for first-time filers or those who value guidance and convenience over cost.

4. Cash App Taxes — Truly Free Option

Cash App Taxes files both federal and one state return at $0 with no upsells +1 . It covers common forms including Schedule C, D, E, and cryptocurrency transactions. Limitations include only one state filing and limited 1099 import. Best for simple returns and single-state filers.

5. TaxSlayer — Budget-Friendly / Self-Employed

TaxSlayer provides a low-cost option for self-employed or military filers, with federal filing from $22.95 and Self-Employed plans at $52.99 federal plus $39.99 state +1 . Supports Schedule C, investments, and is functional for those who prioritize affordability over interface polish. Ideal for self-employed or active military filers.

Honorable Mentions

TaxAct: Good for partnerships and S-corp owners, moderate pricing, strong accuracy guarantee. Jackson Hewitt Online: $25 flat fee across all states, suitable for multi-state filers who prefer predictable pricing.

Recommendations by Filers’ Needs

Comprehensive & in-person backup: H&R Block Affordable with complex filing: FreeTaxUSA User experience & investment-heavy returns: TurboTax Zero-cost simple filing: Cash App Taxes Cost-conscious self-employed & military: TaxSlayer

Overall, your choice depends on budget, complexity, filing preferences, and desire for guidance or in-person support. For most filers seeking broad coverage without overspending, H&R Block or FreeTaxUSA are standout options US News+2 .